A 10-night retreat immersion into the living traditions of Yoga and Ayurveda
in Kerala, South India.
Daily yoga, mantra meditation and Ayurvedic massage — grounding practices, Vedic ceremony, spacious relaxation and deep nourishment.
Namaste & Welcome to India
Kerala, the land of smiles, coconuts, sunshine and home to the wonderful healing sciences of Yoga & Ayurveda. Our retreat goes beyond being a getaway; it's an exploration and deep dive into the rich tapestry of Yoga, embracing its ancient healing practices and rich cultural traditions,
It's a chance to soften into presence, restore balance across body, mind and emotions. Finding joy in the heart,
leaving you feeling grounded, lighter, energised, inspired in your practice and with a restored sense of balance & deep soul nourishment.
From our sunrise meditations, kirtan and boat ride on the backwaters, to temple visits, mantra before meals and the rhythm of Vedic ceremony and cultural experiences - every detail has been carefully woven together to create a nourishing experience for the whole being.
It's a chance to soften into presence, restore balance across body, mind and emotions. Finding joy in the heart,
leaving you feeling grounded, lighter, energised, inspired in your practice and with a restored sense of balance & deep soul nourishment.
From our sunrise meditations, kirtan and boat ride on the backwaters, to temple visits, mantra before meals and the rhythm of Vedic ceremony and cultural experiences - every detail has been carefully woven together to create a nourishing experience for the whole being.
Your Kerala Sanctuary - Between Sea & Backwaters
Cherai Beach is one of the longest and most unspoilt stretches of sand on Vypin Island — beautifully nestled between the Arabian Sea on one side and the tranquil backwaters on the other.
Our retreat home sits directly on the backwaters, where sunrise reflects across still water and fishing boats move quietly at dawn. From here, it’s just a short walk towards the sea, and within around 10 minutes you’ll reach the wide, open sandy stretch of Cherai Beach where sea meets sky — a beautiful place to watch the sunset over the Arabian Ocean. It’s a rare and special geography — water on both sides, expansive light, and space to breathe deeply.
The retreat centre sits within a local coastal neighbourhood. You may hear the gentle sounds of everyday Kerala life — temple bells, distant music, neighbours going about their day, or the occasional passing rickshaw — especially at weekends. It is not a remote silent ashram, but a warm and authentic setting where you can rest deeply while still feeling connected to real India.
A short walk away are a handful of local chai stalls and small cafés along the beach road — perfect if you’d like a local coffee, fresh juice, or to sit and watch life unfold. While this isn’t a busy commercial resort strip, there are simple places nearby should you wish to step out for a snack or quiet wander.
Guests also have access to a nearby hotel swimming pool, offering an additional space to relax and cool off during your stay.
For many, this gentle balance of nature, sea air, village rhythm and simple local life becomes part of the retreat’s unique charm.
Our retreat home sits directly on the backwaters, where sunrise reflects across still water and fishing boats move quietly at dawn. From here, it’s just a short walk towards the sea, and within around 10 minutes you’ll reach the wide, open sandy stretch of Cherai Beach where sea meets sky — a beautiful place to watch the sunset over the Arabian Ocean. It’s a rare and special geography — water on both sides, expansive light, and space to breathe deeply.
The retreat centre sits within a local coastal neighbourhood. You may hear the gentle sounds of everyday Kerala life — temple bells, distant music, neighbours going about their day, or the occasional passing rickshaw — especially at weekends. It is not a remote silent ashram, but a warm and authentic setting where you can rest deeply while still feeling connected to real India.
A short walk away are a handful of local chai stalls and small cafés along the beach road — perfect if you’d like a local coffee, fresh juice, or to sit and watch life unfold. While this isn’t a busy commercial resort strip, there are simple places nearby should you wish to step out for a snack or quiet wander.
Guests also have access to a nearby hotel swimming pool, offering an additional space to relax and cool off during your stay.
For many, this gentle balance of nature, sea air, village rhythm and simple local life becomes part of the retreat’s unique charm.
Your Retreat Programme
Daily Yoga, Ayurvedic Massage, Meditation, Kirtan,
Pure Vegetarian, Ayurvedic locally sourced meals, trips out and more!
Over ten days we step into our rhythm— grounded daily yoga and meditation practices, personalised Ayurvedic massage treatments, mantra and kirtan, sacred ceremony, locally sourced sattvic vegetarian meals, cultural experiences, and spacious time to rest and explore.
At a Glance, Your Retreat Includes:
• *Daily morning/evening yoga and pranayama
• Meditation, mantra/kirtan
• Personalised Ayurvedic consultation and massage treatments
• Daily Abhyanga oil massage
• Three delicious, locally sourced vegetarian Ayurvedic meals each day (blessed with mantra)
• Vedic fire ceremony
• Temple visits and cultural experiences (such as traditional dance or martial arts)
• Sunrise on the backwaters and sunset walks by the sea
• Spacious care time for rest and integration
• Access to a nearby swimming pool
(*no yoga on the afternoon of our outing)
Example Daily Rhythm
6:30am – Morning meditation & mantra/kirtan
7:30am – Yoga & pranayama practice
9:00am – Breakfast
10.00am – Massage / free time / walk, swim, hammock time
1:00pm – Lunch
Afternoon – Massage, rest, beach, backwaters, pool
5:30pm – Evening practice (Yin/restorative/yoga Nidra)
7:00pm – Dinner
Three freshly prepared, delicious vegetarian Ayurvedic meals, juice, herbal teas and drinking water are included daily
One day we will have a trip out after lunch e.g. Fort Cochin for shopping/sightseeing/cultural programme. There will be no yoga that afternoon. We may have the occasional meal out at a different venue.
Yoga
There will be morning and evening yoga sessions on most days. The morning practice is Hatha yoga for all levels of practitioner, whether a beginner or seasoned practitioner. Practice typically includes asanas, pranayama, chanting and relaxation. The afternoon practice is Yin or restorative / Yoga Nidra, chanting and relaxation. Yoga mats, bolsters and blocks are provided. The yoga shala practice space is on the first floor, covered but with open sides, giving a lovely green backdrop and flow of fresh air.
Arrival & Departure
10th January is flight arrival day. Guests arriving at the resort by 4pm can have their first massage on arrival day itself. A beautiful way to ground and relax from a long journey. To allow for settling in and rest, there will be no yoga on arrival day.
Early evening, we will have an orientation walk and get to meet each other over our first group dinner.
Departure day is on 20th January. Rooms need to be vacated by 11am. For later departures, we will provide a room for your luggage. Breakfast is provided on departure day for later morning departures. There will be no yoga/meditation on departure day.
Ayurvedic Massage
Massage treatments for 10 days - all included in your retreat!!
Following your individual consultation with the Ayurvedic doctor, massage & Ayurvedic treatments (minimum one hour)
plus herbal supplements will be prescribed for your body type and needs
. Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage - full body massage using natural herbal oils plus other Ayurvedic treatments will be applied according to your individual body type and needs
A nourishing self care treat and rejuvenation for body & mind!
Between classes, meals and your massage, there will be free time to explore, swim or simply relax with a book in one of the hammocks!
At a Glance, Your Retreat Includes:
• *Daily morning/evening yoga and pranayama
• Meditation, mantra/kirtan
• Personalised Ayurvedic consultation and massage treatments
• Daily Abhyanga oil massage
• Three delicious, locally sourced vegetarian Ayurvedic meals each day (blessed with mantra)
• Vedic fire ceremony
• Temple visits and cultural experiences (such as traditional dance or martial arts)
• Sunrise on the backwaters and sunset walks by the sea
• Spacious care time for rest and integration
• Access to a nearby swimming pool
(*no yoga on the afternoon of our outing)
Example Daily Rhythm
6:30am – Morning meditation & mantra/kirtan
7:30am – Yoga & pranayama practice
9:00am – Breakfast
10.00am – Massage / free time / walk, swim, hammock time
1:00pm – Lunch
Afternoon – Massage, rest, beach, backwaters, pool
5:30pm – Evening practice (Yin/restorative/yoga Nidra)
7:00pm – Dinner
Three freshly prepared, delicious vegetarian Ayurvedic meals, juice, herbal teas and drinking water are included daily
One day we will have a trip out after lunch e.g. Fort Cochin for shopping/sightseeing/cultural programme. There will be no yoga that afternoon. We may have the occasional meal out at a different venue.
Yoga
There will be morning and evening yoga sessions on most days. The morning practice is Hatha yoga for all levels of practitioner, whether a beginner or seasoned practitioner. Practice typically includes asanas, pranayama, chanting and relaxation. The afternoon practice is Yin or restorative / Yoga Nidra, chanting and relaxation. Yoga mats, bolsters and blocks are provided. The yoga shala practice space is on the first floor, covered but with open sides, giving a lovely green backdrop and flow of fresh air.
Arrival & Departure
10th January is flight arrival day. Guests arriving at the resort by 4pm can have their first massage on arrival day itself. A beautiful way to ground and relax from a long journey. To allow for settling in and rest, there will be no yoga on arrival day.
Early evening, we will have an orientation walk and get to meet each other over our first group dinner.
Departure day is on 20th January. Rooms need to be vacated by 11am. For later departures, we will provide a room for your luggage. Breakfast is provided on departure day for later morning departures. There will be no yoga/meditation on departure day.
Ayurvedic Massage
Massage treatments for 10 days - all included in your retreat!!
Following your individual consultation with the Ayurvedic doctor, massage & Ayurvedic treatments (minimum one hour)
plus herbal supplements will be prescribed for your body type and needs
. Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage - full body massage using natural herbal oils plus other Ayurvedic treatments will be applied according to your individual body type and needs
A nourishing self care treat and rejuvenation for body & mind!
Between classes, meals and your massage, there will be free time to explore, swim or simply relax with a book in one of the hammocks!
I have been to many many yoga retreats over the years but I honestly think this was the best one yet. The venue is wonderful, nestled between the backwaters and the sea. The accommodation is simple but the vibe is serene and the people can’t do enough for you. The whole programme was put together with such care, from the opening fire ceremony to the yoga and meditation to the daily ayuverdic treatments, to the little outings to temples, local festivals, Kochin and more. Lila and Rohit’s partnership in leading and teaching was beautiful, both bringing a deep love of what they do and a desire to bring joy to every member of the group. I had the most restorative time imaginable thanks to them, to Shibu the centre manager and to the local Keralan people who cover you in smiles from dawn to dusk. A truly wonderful retreat - thank you - Kate, January '26
Your Personal Ayurveda Plan
Ayurveda, the ancient Science of Life and sister science of yoga, has been practised in Kerala for thousands of years. Rooted in the understanding that each person is unique, Ayurveda works to restore balance according to your individual constitution and current state of wellbeing.
Early in the retreat, you will meet with our Ayurvedic doctor for a personal consultation, including traditional pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha). From this, a personalised programme of rejuvenation treatments is created to support you during your stay.
Daily Abhyanga massage, using warm herbal oils, forms the foundation of your Ayurvedic experience, encouraging deep relaxation, nervous system support, and gentle rejuvenation. Treatments are offered by experienced therapists, with women treating women and men treating men.
Additional treatments and herbal support may be recommended according to your individual needs.
Woven alongside yoga, meditation, nourishing Ayurvedic meals, and the natural rhythm of retreat life, Ayurveda quietly enhances the overall experience — supporting harmony across body, mind, and emotional wellbeing.
The Ayurvedic programme is designed for rejuvenation and wellbeing rather than the treatment of serious medical conditions.
Your Retreat Team
Lila Conway
Lila’s spiritual journey began long before she started teaching yoga in India, 2001. Drawn deeply to India and the heart of traditional practice, she has spent many extended periods living, studying and teaching there, particularly in Kerala and high in the Himalayas.
Over the years she has shared yoga across the UK, Europe and India, guiding practitioners and mentoring those deepening their path, including through extensive yoga teacher training programmes.
She currently leads immersive retreats, online courses, regular sadhana practice and one-to-one mentorship spaces.
Her teaching weaves grounded physical practice, pranayama, meditation, mantra and bhakti (devotional) elements together. Rooted in presence and sincerity, Lila also invites students to meet themselves honestly — stepping towards their edge, where growth unfolds. Practice is not about performance, but neither is it passive; it is a living relationship that asks for awareness, a sincere heartfelt intention and connection.
First and foremost, Lila continues to see herself as a student of the path. She travels to India each year to deepen her own sadhana and study, returning to share what is lived and embodied rather than simply taught.
When not travelling, she lives in Glastonbury, England.
Rohit Yadhav - Guest Teacher
Rohit is one of Delhi's most respected yoga teachers, known for his breath-centered Hatha flow that integrates postures with mantra, meditation, relaxation, and mindfulness. His teaching draws from traditional Yoga Therapy, Patanjali's philosophy, and sports medicine, focusing not on perfecting poses but on exploring personal strength, compassion, and inner wisdom.
With over 18 years of experience, Rohit has taught at Sivananda Centres, led international retreats across Europe, and worked with diplomats, international ambassadors, and students with special needs. He holds advanced certifications from International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashrams, Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, and a Masters in Yoga, along with training in the Iyengar and Viniyoga traditions.
Rohit lives in Delhi with his wife and two children.
The Venue & Local Team
Our retreat takes place in a beautiful backwater setting in Cherai, supported by a trusted local team who help ensure everything runs smoothly throughout our stay. Shibu and Akhilesh are part of our retreat venue and Ayurvedic coordination team, assisting with logistics, treatments and local arrangements are all taken care of. Their knowledge of the area, friendly helpfulness and steady presence support the practical flow of our retreat. We are also grateful to the therapists, kitchen team and support staff whose care and attention create a welcoming and nourishing environment for everyone.
Accommodation & meals
Our retreat home offers simple, clean, comfortable rooms set directly on the backwaters of Cherai. There is a choice of accommodation between standard Heritage style wooden Kerala rooms, Premium room (larger with private balcony) and lovely Garden cottages with private seating area. All rooms are ensuite, with a garden view, some with a backwaters view too.
See booking below for more info.
All meals are blessed, prepared with love and are local Kerala style, fresh, Ayurvedic and pure vegetarian.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included along with herbal teas and a daily fresh juice.
Please note this is a retreat, for rejuvenation on all levels. In order to maintain the purity of the retreat, alcohol is not permitted.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included along with herbal teas and a daily fresh juice.
Please note this is a retreat, for rejuvenation on all levels. In order to maintain the purity of the retreat, alcohol is not permitted.
A very big thank you to Lila for organising this amazing retreat. Just wonderful! Thank you also to Rohit Yadhav, yoga teacher. It is just what you need to reboot your practice, like having a fresh start on things. Lila has the gift of making it a very special experience. A very grounding teacher and considerate to her pupils needs. The treatments for rejuvenation and Ayurveda were excellent. The surroundings are really glorious with excellent food cooked for you. The staff were great and couldn't do enough for you. Daily massage and herbal treatments prescribed are a real treat. The excursions were well planned and interesting and there is also plenty of me time. The complex has a great spiritual ambience to it and the teaching was very inspiring. I made lots of new friends which was all very nourishing and overall a great experience that I would recommend to anyone." - Chaitanya - January 26
Having recently returned from the 10-day retreat with Lila and Rohit, I have been reflecting on just how brilliant an experience it was. It was an absolute joy to learn from Lila and Rohit and admire just how brilliantly they work together and share their many years of experience. They are a great combination of teachers bringing such generosity and much wisdom. Shibu and the team were brilliant hosts with no request too difficult, mindful of everyone’s needs and brilliantly balancing all the demands of a group with calmness, reassurance and smiles.
The food was great, the environment deeply relaxing and the Ayurvedic therapies and care absolutely outstanding.
I personally feel ‘set up’ for the year, and ready to face whatever challenges are thrown at me and thank Lila for ensuring such an amazing and truly memorable retreat. I also met some lovely people!" - Carolyn - January 26
Yoga & Ayurveda Retreat, Kerala - 10 - 20 January, 2027
Retreat Booking & Costs - Once you arrive, you have very little to pay for.
The retreat, massage treatments, trips out, transfers, food are included (please see "what's included") Prices are for the retreat and vary according to the room of your choice. For solo travellers, shared twin rooms are available, (female and male separate) Prices shown are per person. Standard Heritage Kerala Wooden Room Twin or Double, A/C, shared patio, ensuite, garden view Shared - £1661 Single occupancy - £1881 Garden Cottage Double fixed bed, private patio, ensuite, garden view some with backwaters view/partial view. A/C or fan depending on availability Shared - £1611 Single occupancy - £1811 Premium 1st Floor Room or Premium Cottage Larger room, Twin or Double, private balcony view of backwaters, A/C, ensuite Shared - £1867 Single Occupancy - £2081 
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What's includedWhatsApp group chat & connect before travel Transfers to/from Cochin Airport to/from Cherai 10 nights accommodation 3 x daily Vegetarian Meals Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, Sunrise Walk/Boating, Ceremonies/Classes Personal consultation with Ayurvedic Doctor 10 x Ayurvedic Massages - 1 per day for 10 days (or 9 days/massages if you arrive late on arrival day) Herbal supplements during the retreat A few trips out in the local area, including Fort Cochin Cultural Programmes e.g. local traditions, martial arts, dance Additional Cost/Not included: Tourist Visa for India Travel Insurance Flights - International or Domestic Transfers from any location other than Cochin Airport Extra excursions Additional meals/drinks outside of retreat programme Additional Massages or treatments Herbal supplements once retreat is finished Tips |
Booking
A £500 non-refundable deposit is required on booking and the balance/full payment is due 12 weeks before the retreat start date. Or you are welcome to pay in full. It is also possible to pay in instalments on request.
At the time of booking the retreat, please take out valid travel insurance to cover India and any activities you have planned.
Prices are quoted at the current exchange rate and will be adjusted if the rate changes considerably.
Check-out is by 11am on departure day, 20th January.
Retreat Essentials – Please Read Before Booking
At the time of booking the retreat, please take out valid travel insurance to cover India and any activities you have planned.
Prices are quoted at the current exchange rate and will be adjusted if the rate changes considerably.
Check-out is by 11am on departure day, 20th January.
Retreat Essentials – Please Read Before Booking
- Medical & Emotional Health: Yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda can bring up physical and emotional challenges, including past traumas. By booking, you confirm you are fit and emotionally stable to participate, and that you take responsibility for your own wellbeing.
- Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is required. It must cover medical care, cancellation, travel disruption (including COVID-19), and activity risks.
- Travel & Visas: We warmly welcome you at Cochin (Kochi) Airport on your arrival day (10 January) and take care of all transfers between the airport and Cherai throughout your stay—including airport pick-up for both international and domestic flights. Our retreat transfer service includes your return journey to Cochin Airport on departure day (20 January).
We handle everything from the moment you arrive at the airport until your departure transfer, so you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the retreat experience.
Please note that all other travel arrangements—including flights (international or domestic), visas, passports, vaccinations, travel insurance, and entry requirements—are your responsibility to organise.
Indian visa requirements can change, but UK/British passport holders are generally eligible for the straightforward e-Visa (electronic visa) for tourism, applied for entirely online. We strongly recommend checking the official Government of India visa portal well in advance to confirm eligibility, apply, and view the latest details: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html (the authorised site for e-Visa applications, including e-Tourist Visas). You may also wish to refer to the UK Government’s travel advice for India (gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india) or contact your local Indian High Commission/embassy or a specialist travel agent. We are unable to provide personalised visa guidance or accept responsibility for any travel disruptions, delays, or entry issues. Its worth checking the mandatory e-Arrival card online before arrival (via the same portal), very simple just easy to complete before landing. - Cancellations: Deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel 90+ days before the retreat, 50% of your payment is refunded. Cancellations within 90 days are fully non-refundable.
- Liability: You take full responsibility for your health, safety, and belongings. Yoga Prema is not liable for injury, illness, loss, or disruption beyond our control.
- Agreement: By booking, you confirm you have read and agree to the full Yoga Prema Retreat Terms & Conditions.
